Torey Lovullo remains in the mix but has not advanced as far in the process as the other two.

Sources who recently spent time with Valentine described him as “really excited” about the idea of managing the Red Sox. But he has not had any communication with the Red Sox since his day-long interview at Fenway Park on Monday.

There exists a possibility that the Red Sox could change gears at the last second.

They were interested in John Farrell, but those talks died when the Blue Jays asked for Clay Buchholz, the New York Times reported. Joe Maddon is not leaving Tampa Bay and plans, in fact, to sign a long-term extension.

Is there a mystery candidate beyond that?

More likely, the Red Sox are just being methodical and will announce Valentine (or Lamont) as their man next week.